Primary Education Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

1. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What GCSE grades do I need to get on the course? For both BEd and PGCE courses you need to have GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent) in Maths, English and a Science subject. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS Q What about QTS Skill Tests? For all Primary BEd and Primary PGCE courses you need to have passed both your English and Maths QTS skills tests. You will be expected to pass these and provide evidence of doing prior to starting the Course. A

2. Maths: Primary QTS Skills Session Room WN113 Session Times: 10:45-11:30 12:45-1:30 1:45-2:30

3. English: Primary QTS Skills Session Room WN114 Session Times: 10:45-11:30 12:45-1:30 1:45-2:30

4. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How many UCAS points do I need to get onto the BEd course? 280 UCAS points from ‘A’ levels or equivalent (excluding A Level General Studies and A Level Critical Thinking) (min 2 A Levels = 180 pts.) A minimum of 10 days recent work experience in a UK mainstream primary school (not special school) spread over Key Stages 1 and 2. (Preferably from January 2013) . Other experience such as SEN, Nursery or SureStart may be mentioned in your Personal Statement to enhance your application. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

5. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q I've completed a cache. How will this transfer into points ? Depending on the status of your Cache (Merits, Distinctions, Passes) there will be an equivalence to UCAS points – check with Admissions staff today. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

6. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What degree do I need for the PGCE? A UK-recognised Honours degree, or equivalent, (preferably 2:1 or above) in preferably a National Curriculum subject, or evidence of related further education.You could also consider studying one of the following education-related degrees that are appropriate qualifications for a PGCE:- BA (Hons) Childhood and Family Studies- BA (Hons) Education Studies - BA (Hons) Special Needs and Inclusion Studies A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

7. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How much school experience do I need? BEd Primary or Early PrimaryA minimum of 10 days recent work experience in a primary school at the relevant level. Early Primary requires Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1. Primary requires Key Stages 1 and 2. (Preferably from January 2013)PGCE Primary (PGCE Core Primary) (PGCE Primary with Mathematics)A minimum of 20 days (10 days in each Key Stage) recent experience in a mainstream school shared equally between Key Stage 1 and 2 is required, including exposure to the day-to-day working of primary teachers and evidence of interaction with primary age children. (Preferably from January 2013) Other experience such as SEN, Nursery or SureStart may be mentioned in your Personal Statement to enhance your application. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

8. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q When can I apply? BEd Primary (x120) or BEd Early Primary (x320) PGCE Primary (Core) (x100) PGCE Primary with Mathematics (DD2C) Schools Direct (look on our website) Applications for any of our Primary Courses are through UCAS.Visit www.ucas.com for full details. Applying early in the academic year is recommended, as these courses can be highly competitive. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

9. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What shall I include in my BEd application? You must say why you want to go into teaching and why you think it is an important career. You must also be explicit about your experience in mainstream school – activities you have undertaken such as helping readers, assemblies, school visits etc. Discuss any additional experience you have with children such as crafts or sports clubs, after school clubs, cubs, brownies, boys’ brigade, guides etc. This may also include a previous career in a Children’s centre, nursery or as a nanny or child-minder. Don’t forget to mention other interests such as sport, dance, music, or any voluntary work you do. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

10. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What shall I include in my PGCE application? There are limited places and we do receive a high volume of applications. Therefore, you need to ‘sell yourself’ so that your application is selected during the first sift and you are invited to interview. The standard of English in your statement has to be of a very good standard so please proof read your statement. (You will be studying Modules at Masters Level)Include your school experiences and include classroom-based examples to make your statement more colourful. Share your philosophy of teaching and your thoughts around the related pedagogy in primary education. Refrain from making sweeping generalisations; we need to read something that reflects who you are… and what you think! A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

11. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How will I find out if I have an interview? BEd Primary or Early PrimaryYou will be informed via UCAS, as well as via evision if you have an interview or whether your application has been unsuccessful for the course you applied for. Please be aware that we interview from November until May and your application may still be under consideration during this period. In the event that your application is unsuccessful for the BEd you may be offered an alternative course in the School of Education.PGCE PrimaryYou will be notified of the outcome of your application via the UCAS website and evision as soon as your application has been processed, as we understand that should your application be unsuccessful, you need to go back into ‘UCAS pot’ so your application can be considered by your next choice. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

12. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What will the interview include? Your answers should reflect on the following:- Your commitment to, and understanding of, primary education and the role of the teacher/lecturer- Effective personal, intellectual and communication skills- A positive attitude towards children and working with children- Your enthusiasm for, and understanding of, your subjects and teaching in general- Clear and accurate spoken English You will also complete a Skills & Knowledge audit to support our Cluster Subject Leaders should you be successful in gaining a place on any of our Primary Courses. The level is no higher than GCSE. It is recommended that you practice some of the Year 6 primary maths without the aid of calculator (for example, long multiplication, long division, fractions, percentages and decimals). A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

13. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Do I need to bring anything to the interview? When attending an interview for a teacher training programme you will need to bring the following items with you.- Two forms of identification (one photographic)- Anything you wish to share… evidence of your classroom experience (portfolio)- Pens/pencilsAdditional items may be required so remember to check the guidance given in your invitation to interview. ALL PAPERWORK: evidence of your qualifications / HD forms / F2T forms are uploaded by yourselves on ‘evision’ once you are invited for interview….you will be sent details of this. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

14. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How much are course fees? For BEd Primary Courses ~ Early Years (x320) and Primary (x120) Tuition fees for 2013 / 2014 are £8,500 per year. For more information visit www.wlv.ac.uk/moneymatters A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

15. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Do I receive funding for the course? In 2014/2015 Primary PGCE students can receive bursaries. PGCE Primary with Mathematics… (Grade B or above at ‘A’ Level & 2:1 UG Degree = £6000) (Grade B or above at ‘A’ Level & 1st UG Degree = £9000) School Direct Salaried (2:2 Degree = £6000) (1st / 2:1 = £11,000) This is subject to change. Loans and/or grants may also be available. For more information visit www.wlv.ac.uk/moneymatters A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

16. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How long will I spend on placement during the course? BEd Primary or Early PrimaryStudents undertake school placements in each year of the course as follows: Year one of course: 4 weeksYear two of course: 4 weeks Year three of course: 10 weeksThere are also additional times when you will be working in school or working with children across the three years of the course. PGCE PrimaryStudents undertake three placements at two different schools lasting a minimum of 120 days. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

17. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Where will I be placed for my attachments? Your school placements are allocated for you and whilst we make every effort to place you at schools near to where you live, you can expect to travel up to an hour one way. You also need to complete school attachments across a range of schools in order to get a broader experience and to prepare you to teach in a diverse society once qualified. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

18. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How employable are primary teaching graduates? The University of Wolverhampton creates graduates that are digitally literate, knowledgeable & enterprising and have a global outlook on life. Therefore it is no surprise that six months after completing their course last year, almost all Wolverhampton NQTs (newly-qualified teachers) were employed as teachers. Some were continuing to study alongside their work, in most cases for a modular Master’s degree at the University of Wolverhampton. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

19. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What percentage of previous graduates go on to become teachers? 95% of Early Primary and 92% of Primary graduates from 2012 are currently employed in teaching and education roles.(Source: Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2012) A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

20. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Why choose the Institute of Education at the University of Wolverhampton? We are one of Britain’s largest and most established providers of teacher education and following a recent Ofsted inspection are rated ‘Grade 2: Good’ for Primary teacher education.Our state-of-the-art education and teaching building has teaching rooms fitted with interactive whiteboards, three lecture theatres as well as social learning areas and a coffee shop.Our partnerships with primary schools are extensive and varied, giving you the best possible teaching experience. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

21. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q How satisfied are students with the facilities available? 90%of students say they can access facilities whenever they need to84%of students are satisfied with the learning resources available80%of students are satisfied with the teaching on their course A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

22. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What electronic resources are there to support learning? WOLFThe Wolverhampton Online Learning Framework contains all your lecture notes, handouts and reading lists with forums and online support from lecturersWIREThe Wolverhampton Intellectual Repository and E-Theses gives online access to hundreds of our research papers A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

23. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Are there halls of residence on the Walsall Campus? The Walsall student village opened in 2005 with 340 en-suite rooms.The facilities include modern kitchens, a launderette, relaxing social areas, communal phones and wireless Internet. The student village is a secure courtyard development with CCTV. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

24. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q What study facilities are available on the Walsall Campus? The Walsall Performance Hub has a large range of books and journals, plus over 8000 electronic journal articles. Study skills courses and live online support are available. They also have music rooms for you to book to practise your favourite tune.There are around 2,000 computers across the University for students to use in computer labs, Learning Centres, and Social Learning Spaces with access to the Microsoft software and Internet access.All campuses have free wireless internet access for students. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS

25. Primary EducationFrequently Asked Questions - FAQ Q Are there any sports facilities on site? The Walsall Sports Centre is a fantastic facility with a 12 court multi-activity sports hall and a 20 metre swimming pool, as well as a fitness and conditioning suite with weight training room. Outdoor facilities include a floodlit athletics track and all-weather pitch.The centre has secured a coveted position as an official training base in the Guide for National Olympic Committees as an accredited sports facility for Basketball, Judo and Taekwondo. A ENTRY REQUIREMENTSAPPLICATIONS AND ADMISSIONSFINANCIAL INFORMATIONSCHOOL PLACEMENTSPROSPECTS AND EMPLOYMENTABOUT THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONTHE WALSALL CAMPUS